The Homeschool Connections Podcast

homeschoolingsaints

Grab your coffee, hit play, and let's homeschool together! ๐๐ˆ๐† ๐๐„๐–๐’: ๐’๐ž๐š๐ฌ๐จ๐ง ๐Ÿ• ๐ข๐ฌ ๐š๐ฅ๐ฆ๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐‡๐„๐‘๐„โ€”๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐š ๐Ÿ๐ซ๐ž๐ฌ๐ก ๐ง๐ž๐ฐ ๐ฅ๐จ๐จ๐ค, ๐š ๐ง๐ž๐ฐ ๐ง๐š๐ฆ๐ž, ๐š๐ง๐ ๐š ๐ง๐ž๐ฐ ๐ก๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎโ€™๐ซ๐ž ๐ ๐จ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐ญ๐จ ๐‹๐Ž๐•๐„! Say hello to The Homeschool Connections Podcast (formerly Homeschooling Saints)โ€”your new Monday-morning must-listen! And leading the way? Our new host, Kaitlin Zaraโ€”a joyful, faith-filled Catholic homeschool mom who's bringing energy, encouragement, and real talk straight to your earbuds. Kaitlin's here to walk with you through all things Catholic homeschoolingโ€”big questions, little wins, messy days, and moments of grace. Season 7 launches Monday, August 18 New episodes every Monday Letโ€™s do this, mamas. Season 7 is all about YOU!

  1. 1d ago

    A Homeschool Dadโ€™s Perspective: Why Itโ€™s Worth It

    What role should fathers play in a homeschooling family? In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with Homeschool Connections co-founder Walter Crawford to discuss homeschooling from a dadโ€™s perspective. Drawing on more than fifteen years of homeschooling experience, Walter shares why a father's involvement matters, how dads can support their homeschooling wives, and the lasting impact that intentional fatherhood has on children. From coaching sports and helping with homework to leading by example at Mass and creating meaningful family traditions, Walter offers practical advice and heartfelt encouragement for fathers at every stage of the homeschooling journey. Whether you're an actively involved homeschool dad or simply trying to understand your role more clearly, this conversation will inspire you to embrace the unique influence God has given you within your family. Show Notes Thank You to Our Sponsor Emily Brown from Fiat Life Coaching offers premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms to learn essential skills to manage their time, other peopleโ€™s behavior, and their own mental and emotional well-being. Learn more about the Happy, Holy Mama Membership here: https://fiatlifecoaching.ontralink.com/tl/6 About Our Guest Walter Crawford is a co-founder of Homeschool Connections and a veteran homeschooling father whose family has homeschooled for more than sixteen years. Alongside his wife and six children, Walter has experienced firsthand the challenges, sacrifices, and tremendous rewards of homeschooling. Through Homeschool Connections, he has helped thousands of Catholic families find academic support, community, and confidence in their homeschooling journey. Homeschool Connections https://homeschoolconnections.com/ Catholic Homeschool Blog https://homeschoolconnections.com/blog/ Homeschool Connections Parent Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolconnectionsparents YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@homeschoolconnection/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hsc_online/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolconnections X (Twitter) https://x.com/homeschoolcnnct What We Cover in This Episode Three practical ways dads can strengthen their homeschool: support your wife, stay united as a team, and be a utility player wherever needed Why fathers play a critical role in homeschooling success Different ways dads can support homeschooling families The importance of being open to homeschooling, even if you're initially unsure Why high school is often the most challenging homeschool season Lessons learned from homeschooling through difficult academic struggles The long-term fruits of homeschooling seen in adult children Why fathers should view homeschooling as an investment in their family Practical ways busy dads can stay involved despite work schedules The power of coaching, mentoring, and simply showing up How dads teach far more than academics Why Mass, prayer, and family faith practices matter Building strong family culture through hobbies, outings, and vacations Lessons Walter learned from fatherhood and homeschooling mistakes The Catechism's teaching on parents as the primary educators of their children Why fathers must be "the rock" for their families Memorable Quote "Whatever investments you make into your children now will be visible ten or fifteen years from now. The more you put into it, the more you'll get back." Key Takeaway Homeschooling is not simply about academics. It is about forming relationships, building virtue, strengthening family bonds, and investing intentionally in the people God has entrusted to your care. Fathers have a unique and irreplaceable role in that mission.

    48 min

  2. May 25

    A Grandparent's Role in Homeschooling | Ep 286

    What role do grandparents play in a homeschool family? In this heartfelt episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Homeschool Connections co-founder and grandmother of eleven, Maureen Wittmann, to discuss the unique and beautiful ways grandparents can support homeschooling families. From reading books and teaching life skills to offering practical help, prayer, encouragement, and simply being present, grandparents have an incredible opportunity to strengthen family culture and enrich a childโ€™s education. Maureen shares personal stories from her own homeschooling years, practical ideas for grandparents who live both near and far away, and encouragement for families navigating relationships with skeptical relatives. This conversation is a touching reminder that homeschooling is about far more than academicsโ€”itโ€™s about building strong, loving family relationships across generations. Show Notes Thank You to Our Sponsor! John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs within creative arts, digital media, theology, and business in a faithfully Catholic environment. Apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses at: https://jpcatholic.edu/homeschool Resources Mentioned Catholic Family Crate Subscription Boxes https://catholicfamilycrate.com/ Homeschool Connections Articles for Grandparents https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/grandparents-homeschooling/ What We Cover in This Episode Why grandparents are such an important part of homeschooling Practical ways grandparents can support homeschool families How grandparents can help even when they live far away Using books, nature, cooking, and family traditions to enrich learning Why homeschooling strengthens intergenerational relationships Helping homeschool parents avoid burnout Supporting family culture through shared experiences Encouraging grandparents who feel unsure how to help Navigating relationships with skeptical grandparents or relatives Why homeschooling is more than academics: itโ€™s a way of life The importance of prayer and mentorship within the family How grandparents can pass down faith, stories, and family history Respecting parental authority while remaining involved and supportive About Our Guest Maureen Wittmann is the co-founder of Homeschool Connections, a veteran homeschool mom of seven, grandmother of eleven, author, speaker, and longtime advocate for Catholic homeschooling families. Through her writing, speaking, and work at Homeschool Connections, she has spent decades helping families homeschool with confidence, joy, and a strong Catholic family culture.

    29 min

  3. May 18

    The Real Cost of Homeschoolingโ€”and How Families Make It Work | Ep 285

    Can your family really afford to homeschool in todayโ€™s economy? In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Catholic financial coach and homeschooling mom Amanda Teixeira to talk honestly about the financial realities of homeschooling. From budgeting and grocery savings to navigating a one-income household, Amanda shares practical strategies to help families homeschool without drowning in stress or debt. Together, they discuss the hidden financial pressures homeschool families face, common budgeting mistakes, and how couples can work together toward financial peace. Amanda also offers encouragement for parents discerning whether homeschooling is financially possible for their family. Whether youโ€™re just starting your homeschool journey or trying to make it sustainable long-term, this episode offers hope, practical tools, and faith-filled wisdom. Show Notes Sponsor At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. 20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit online through Franciscanโ€™s dual enrollment. Learn more at Franciscan dot E-D-U. Resources Mentioned Catholic Budget Guide https://catholicbudgetguide.com/ Catholic Money Academy https://catholicmoneyacademy.com/ WalletWin https://walletwin.com/moneytogether/ Messy Family Podcast https://messyfamilyproject.org/podcasts/ About Our Guest Amanda Teixeira is the co-founder of WalletWin, a Catholic financial formation ministry that helps families eliminate debt, build savings, and live with financial peace and generosity. After paying off $25,000 of debt in just seven and a half months with her husband Jonathan, Amanda began helping other Catholic families take control of their finances. Together, they are the authors of How to Attack Debt, Build Savings, and Change the World Through Generosity: A Catholic Guide to Managing Money and creators of multiple Catholic financial education programs used by parishes, dioceses, and schools nationwide. Amanda and Jonathan live in Omaha, Nebraska with their four children. What We Cover in This Episode The real financial challenges homeschool families face today How inflation has changed homeschooling budgets Why budgeting is the key skill every homeschool family needs Tips for transitioning from two incomes to one Grocery-saving strategies for large families Batch cooking, bulk buying, and simplifying food expenses Common financial mistakes homeschool families make Why homeschool moms shouldnโ€™t compare themselves to influencers Balancing homeschool expenses with marriage and family priorities Saving for retirement and college while homeschooling Why couples need regular โ€œbudget partiesโ€ How to become financially unified in marriage Discernment and prayer when deciding whether to homeschool Encouragement for families who feel homeschooling is financially impossible To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you: Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool Podcast Grab your coffee, and letโ€™s homeschool together!

    41 min

  4. May 11

    How to Choose the Right Homeschool Curriculum (Without Getting Overwhelmed) | Ep 284

    Choosing homeschool curriculum can feel overwhelming. There are endless options, strong opinions, shiny new programs, and the constant fear of making the โ€œwrongโ€ choice. In this episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with veteran homeschool mom and consultant Jenny Bales to help parents simplify the curriculum selection process and homeschool with more confidence and peace. Jenny shares practical advice for discerning what your family truly needs, avoiding comparison traps, and building a homeschool that actually works for your unique children and season of life. Whether youโ€™re brand new to homeschooling or reevaluating whatโ€™s working in your current routine, this conversation will help you step away from pressure and move toward clarity, freedom, and joy. Thank You to Our Sponsor Emily Brown from Fiat Life Coaching offers premium support for Catholic homeschooling moms to learn essential skills to manage their time, other peopleโ€™s behavior, and their own mental and emotional well-being. Learn more about the Happy, Holy Mama Membership here: https://fiatlifecoaching.ontralink.com/tl/6 Show Notes What We Cover in This Episode: Why choosing curriculum feels so overwhelming today The biggest mistakes homeschool parents make when selecting curriculum Why there is no โ€œperfectโ€ curriculum How to discern what your child truly needs Avoiding comparison and homeschool pressure The importance of understanding your homeschool goals first What to prioritize in the early years How personality and learning style affect curriculum choices Why flexibility matters more than perfection When to stick with a curriculumโ€”and when to pivot Practical tips for simplifying your homeschool planning Encouragement for moms who feel behind or uncertain Resources Mentioned Jenny Bales / Heart of a Mother Website: https://www.heartofamother.net The Heart of a Mother Mega Catholic Homeschool Curriculum List: https://www.heartofamother.net/curriculum/ Free Resources & โ€œJennyโ€™s Curriculum Picksโ€: https://www.heartofamother.net/ (Go to Free Resources โ†’ Homeschool Guides) Summer Planning Help & โ€œDiscerning Curriculum Bootcampโ€: https://www.heartofamother.net/homeschool-planning/ Catholic Homeschool Curriculum mentioned: Catholic Heritage Curricula, https://chcweb.com/  Homeschool Connections, https://www.homeschoolconnections.com/   Kolbe Academy, https://www.kolbe.org/  Mater Amabilis, https://materamabilis.org/ma/  Mother of Divine Grace School, https://modg.org/  Seton Home Study School, https://www.setonhome.org/ About the Guest Jenny Bales is a Catholic homeschooling mom of four, homeschool consultant, and speaker who has homeschooled for 19 years, including graduating two students who were homeschooled Kโ€“12. Her mission is to help homeschool moms gain confidence, grow in peace, and homeschool with joy through the support and resources she offers at Heart of a Mother. To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you: Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool Podcast Grab your coffee, and letโ€™s homeschool together!

    28 min

  5. May 4

    Peaceful Homeschool Parenting: The Simple Shift That Changes Everything | Ep. 283

    Homeschooling gives us more time with our children. But what happens when that time is filled with frustration, conflict, or constant correction? In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with Catholic homeschool mom of seven and life coach Emily Brown to explore the powerful role of connection in peaceful parenting. Emily shares practical, faith-centered strategies to help moms navigate difficult behaviors, reduce overwhelm, and build stronger relationships with their children. From handling meltdowns and defiance to shifting your own mindset and responding with calm confidence, this conversation offers real encouragement for moms in the trenches. If youโ€™ve ever wondered how to discipline without damaging your relationship, or how to find peace in the middle of a hard season, this episode is for you. Sponsor At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. 20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit through online dual enrollment. Learn more at: franciscan.edu Show Notes Key Takeaways: Behavior is often a form of communication Calm, connected parenting is more effective than reactive discipline Small moments of attention can transform relationships You are not failingโ€”you are being formed alongside your children Resources Mentioned: Free PDF: 30 New Thoughts to Think https://fiatlifecoaching.com/30-new-thoughts-sign-up Fiat Life Coaching: https://fiatlifecoaching.com/ Homeschool Better Together: https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/ Happy, Holy Mama Podcast: https://fiatlifecoaching.com/podcast About Our Guest Emily Brown is a Catholic homeschooling mother of 7, including her first homeschool graduate this year, with a second graduating soon, down to a rising second grader. Sheโ€™s a former youth leader turned certified life coach with a deep passion for building up the kingdom of God, one family at a time, starting with the mother.  Emily runs a life-coaching membership for Catholic homeschool moms called Happy, Holy Mama, where you can learn practical tools to think, feel, and serve God better through your family.  She is also now the proud owner and CEO of Homeschool Better Together, an online curriculum and homeschool support provider that helps families homeschool multiple children with more joy and connection.  You can listen to her on the Happy, Holy Mama Podcast. And you can learn more about her work at fiatlifecoaching.com and homeschoolbettertogether.com  What We Cover in This Episode: Why homeschooling can make behavior feel both easier and harder The real reason behavior issues feel overwhelming (hint: itโ€™s not just the kids) Why โ€œconnection before correctionโ€ changes everything How your thoughts shape your reactions, and your homeschool atmosphere What to do in the moment when emotions are high (for both mom and child) Why logic doesnโ€™t work during meltdowns, and what does instead Simple ways to calm yourself and your child (including โ€œHoly Spirit breathsโ€) The importance of daily connection to prevent repeated outbursts How to respond when a child pushes you away Encouragement for moms who feel like theyโ€™re โ€œnot enough.โ€ To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you: Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool Podcast Grab your coffee, and letโ€™s homeschool together!

    41 min

  6. Apr 27

    Charlotte Mason Homeschooling 101: What It Is (and What It Isnโ€™t) | Ep. 282

    What is a Charlotte Mason education? And is it really as overwhelming as it seems? In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with veteran homeschool mom and educator Jen Mackintosh Weaver to break down Charlotte Mason homeschooling in simple, practical terms. Jen explains what this philosophy truly is (and what it isnโ€™t), why itโ€™s far more flexible than most parents think, and how it can be adapted to any season of family life. From living books and narration to building attention and fostering meaningful relationships, this conversation will help you cut through the confusion and discover whether Charlotte Mason might be a good fit for your homeschool. Whether youโ€™re brand new to homeschooling or looking to simplify what youโ€™re already doing, this episode is a must-listen. Thank You to Our Sponsor At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. 20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit through online dual enrollment. Learn more at: https://franciscan.edu/advantage/    SHOW NOTES Resources Mentioned: Jenโ€™s website: https://wildflowersandmarbles.com The Morning Basket (article): https://wildflowersandmarbles.com/2009/08/05/the-morning-basket/ The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald: https://amzn.to/4tSfQyF Mater Amabilis (free Catholic Charlotte Mason curriculum): https://materamabilis.org/ma/ Catholic Charlotte Mason Primer: https://homeschoolconnections.com/catholic-charlotte-mason/ Homeschool Connections Reading Lists: https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/reading-lists/ What We Cover in This Episode: What a Charlotte Mason education actually isโ€”and common misconceptions Why Charlotte Mason is simpler and more flexible than it appears The difference between โ€œliving booksโ€ and textbooks How narration works (and why itโ€™s a powerful form of assessment) What a typical Charlotte Mason homeschool day looks like The importance of short lessons and building attention How this method fosters independence and lifelong learning Why relationships are at the heart of Charlotte Mason education How to start small without becoming overwhelmed Adapting your homeschool during difficult seasons (illness, grief, major life changes) The importance of margin, flexibility, and trusting the process To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you: Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool Podcast Grab your coffee, and letโ€™s homeschool together!

    49 min

  7. Apr 20

    Should Your Child Learn Latin? The Surprising Benefits! | Ep. 281

    Is Latin really a โ€œdead languageโ€ or is it one of the most powerful tools you can give your child? In this episode, host Kaitlin Zara talks with Homeschool Connections instructor Debbie Gaudino about why Latin still matters today. From strengthening vocabulary and grammar to building discipline, perseverance, and even deepening faith, Latin offers far more than most parents realize. Debbie shares practical advice for getting started (even if youโ€™ve never studied Latin yourself), how to motivate reluctant learners, and why learning Latin can connect students to their cultural and spiritual heritage in a profound way. If youโ€™ve ever wondered whether Latin is worth it for your homeschool, this conversation will change the way you think about it. Thank You to Our Sponsor! At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students live the truth of the Gospel in a vibrant Catholic community that unites faith and reason in every major. 20% of Franciscan students come from a homeschool background. High school juniors and seniors can also earn college credit through online dual enrollment. Learn more at: https://franciscan.edu/advantage/  Resources Mentioned: Latin Tutorial YouTube Channel (great starting point): https://www.youtube.com/@latintutorial Debbie Gaudino Instructor Page: https://homeschoolconnections.com/instructors/debbie-gaudino/ What We Cover in This Episode: Is Latin really a โ€œdead languageโ€? Why itโ€™s actually everywhere today How Latin strengthens vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills Why Latin is especially helpful for science, law, medicine, and Romance languages The best age to introduce Latin (and why younger is often better) How Latin builds discipline, patience, and perseverance in students Why Latin is like solving a puzzleโ€”and why that matters in todayโ€™s fast-paced world How Latin connects students to history, culture, and the Catholic faith Real-life examples of Latin in everyday language (like โ€œvetoโ€ and โ€œetc.โ€) Practical tips for parents who feel unprepared to teach Latin How to motivate reluctant learners The importance of doing hard thingsโ€”and the long-term rewards To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you: Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool Podcast Grab your coffee, and letโ€™s homeschool together!

    31 min

  8. Apr 14

    Starting a Homeschool Co-op Without Burning Out | Ep. 280

    Thank You to Our Sponsor: John Paul the Great Catholic University offers hands-on programs in creative arts, digital media, theology, and business in a faithfully Catholic environment. Apply for free and explore free storytelling courses: https://jpcatholic.edu/landingpages/homeschool-connections/   Description: Thinking about starting a homeschool co-opโ€”but worried about overwhelm? Lindsay Carpenter shares her real-life journey from burnout in a large co-op to building a simple, thriving, faith-centered homeschool community. Learn how to balance service and family life, avoid common pitfalls, and create something that truly works for your family. Show Notes: Lindsayโ€™s journey from public school teacher to homeschool leader Why bigger isnโ€™t always better The โ€œyear of noโ€ and resetting priorities How to discern your communityโ€™s real needs Why simplicity is key Avoiding burnout while serving others Encouraging parents to step into teaching roles Lindsay's book: Where Is Jesus Hidden, https://amzn.to/4dKi5Ph Short video with Lindsay on how she implements HSC classes into her co-op: https://youtu.be/XzUx8nvuCMw?si=2aqM3wBX3wV3TE0V To discover more support for your Catholic homeschool adventure, here are some valuable resources for you: Catholic Homeschool Blog Catholic Homeschool Podcast Grab your coffee, and letโ€™s homeschool together!

    37 min
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4.7
out of 5
31 Ratings

About

Grab your coffee, hit play, and let's homeschool together! ๐๐ˆ๐† ๐๐„๐–๐’: ๐’๐ž๐š๐ฌ๐จ๐ง ๐Ÿ• ๐ข๐ฌ ๐š๐ฅ๐ฆ๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐‡๐„๐‘๐„โ€”๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐š ๐Ÿ๐ซ๐ž๐ฌ๐ก ๐ง๐ž๐ฐ ๐ฅ๐จ๐จ๐ค, ๐š ๐ง๐ž๐ฐ ๐ง๐š๐ฆ๐ž, ๐š๐ง๐ ๐š ๐ง๐ž๐ฐ ๐ก๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎโ€™๐ซ๐ž ๐ ๐จ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐ญ๐จ ๐‹๐Ž๐•๐„! Say hello to The Homeschool Connections Podcast (formerly Homeschooling Saints)โ€”your new Monday-morning must-listen! And leading the way? Our new host, Kaitlin Zaraโ€”a joyful, faith-filled Catholic homeschool mom who's bringing energy, encouragement, and real talk straight to your earbuds. Kaitlin's here to walk with you through all things Catholic homeschoolingโ€”big questions, little wins, messy days, and moments of grace. Season 7 launches Monday, August 18 New episodes every Monday Letโ€™s do this, mamas. Season 7 is all about YOU!

Information

  • Creator
    homeschoolingsaints
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    288
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ยฉ Copyright 2019 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Homeschool Connections Podcast

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